A little history…

So, what’s this?? A beefy, brawny saltwater tough guy posing as a trout reel? Isn’t that a bit …well, overkill?
After
all, in fly fishing, unlike conventional spinning or bait casting, we
don’t actually use the reel to make the cast. In the old genteel days of
trout fishing, the reel simply stored line until we’re lucky enough to
hook something that took out more line than we had in our hand. I grew
up using a stamped, Japanese import, then a stamped Pflueger Medalist,
and finally graduated to a variety of die cast Hardy reels, the gold
standard of trout reels in the early 1980’s. I treasured all of them in
their time. Maybe it was the insistent buzz made by the clicker as a
trout peeled off line, or maybe I felt the reel was my fishing
companion, sharing in each new adventure.

Fast forward to 2007.
Our “genteel” art has become, on many fronts, a slugfest. No longer are
we satisfied plying our trade in bucolic settings fishing for small
trout. Today, many of us travel
the world seeking larger trout in New Zealand, Patagonia, and Chile. We
fish the salt water flats for species such as bonefish and permit that
swim much faster and pull much harder than their similarly sized
freshwater cousins. Consequently, we’re harder on our tackle and have
come to expect greater performance from our fly reels.

You’d
think it wouldn’t take rocket science to come up with a little metal
wheel with a brake that was dependable. But I’ve seen just about every
brand of reel fail at one time or another. Whether it’s grit or grime,
extreme heat or cold, component wear, or impact from a hard fall, if
there’s a weakness, we usually find out about it exactly at the wrong
time.

Enter Steve Abel. Although not a rocket scientist, he is
an experienced aerospace machinist, who started selling his fly fishing
reels in 1987. His motto then, and the company’s motto today is “to
design and build the best, most dependable gear in the world and give
world class customer service.” In the ensuing twenty years, Abel Quality
Products has succeeded in carving out a niche in the increasingly
competitive arena of high quality fly fishing reels and built a devoted
following of end users. The latest offering from Abel is the Super 5
Narrow Large Arbor, a trout sized reel that boasts a robustness usually
found only in its larger, saltwater brethren.

Features

The Abel Super 5N Fly Fishing Reel is the newest addition
to the Abel Super Series, which have a large arbor design for faster
line retrieve, reduced line coiling, and better drag continuity. The 5N
spool, frame, and foot are cut from a solid block of 6061-T6 cold
finished high molecular density aluminum. The spool and frame are
aggressively ported (ventilated) to reduce weight, while maintaining
great strength and rigidity. The draw bar, main shaft, pawls, and screws
are machined 303 stainless steel. The drag is comprised of a large surface
area, cork composite covered drag plate tightened against the inside of
the aluminum spool by the draw bar. All aluminum surfaces are protected
against corrosion by Abel’s proprietary hard anodizing process. The 5N
is convertible to left or right hand retrieve. At 5.7 ounces, it’s
relatively light considering its bombproof strength. The drag system is
silky smooth, with low start up inertia, and based on a simple design
that has proven itself over two decades. The spool capacity is suitable
for 5 or 6 weight lines, making it ideal for large trout and small
steelhead. Substituting smaller diameter gel spun backing in place of
Dacron, one could pump up the backing capacity to over 150 yards for
medium steelies, smaller bonefish, specks and reds. Overall, a nearly
flawless, extremely rugged and reliable fly fishing reel for taking
fresh and smaller saltwater species on light tackle.

• Large arbor, narrow spool design for quick line pick up

• Machined from 6061-T6 cold finished aluminum bar stock

• Impact resistant spool rim and frame

• Smooth, reliable cork-draw bar drag system

• Durable, hard anodized finish

• Custom colors, handles, and engraving available at additional charge

Materials, Fit, and Finish

Fly fishing reels machined from a solid bar of metal have
the greatest rigidity and strength per weight, but in the long run, are
more costly to produce than stamped, or die cast reels. Over thirty
years ago, American companies such as Seamaster and Fin Nor pioneered
the construction of machined fly reels, primarily for a small following
of hard core salmon and saltwater fly enthusiasts. The increased
popularity of fly fishing, coupled with political and economic expansion
of the Far East in recent years, has led to an influx of many
reasonable quality, less expensive machined imports primarily targeting
entry and mid level customers. Many U.S. makers of good reels have
folded under this pressure, and the majority that have remained, like
Abel and Tibor, have done so by directing there efforts at top of the
line products.

Although you may find some custom $2000-$10,000
titanium reel models on the Internet, aluminum is the choice for mere
mortals. Abel uses 6061-T6 cold finished bar stock in all of their
reels, which is the strongest, densest, most corrosion resistant
aluminum for this purpose. The spool, frame and foot of the 5N Super are
cut from this, and the mainshaft and drawbar from 303 stainless steel,
on Computer Numerical Control lathes and mills. In fact, every
machinable part in the reel is made in the Abel factory to insure utmost
quality control, right down to the stainless steel screws. The only
non-metal parts are the cork drag washer, a neoprene o-ring, and the
laminated, sealed wood handle.

The overall weight of the reel is
significantly reduced, while retaining structural integrity, by
precise, aggressive porting throughout the spool and frame. All parts
are hand de-burred, hand polished, cleaned and inspected and aluminum
parts are protected from wear and corrosion (and colored) by Abel’s
unique hard anodizing process, which penetrates and bonds to the metal.
Two sealed waterproof ball bearings on the spool and one on the drag
plate provide near frictionless rotation.

Abel currently employs
28 production workers and 7 support staff in their Camarillo,
California facility. They offer a lifetime warranty on manufacturing
defects for all their reels. Although you’re not likely to need that
warranty, it’s nice to know that Abel, due to their success, will
probably be around to back it up if you do.

What a drag

In a nutshell, there are two basic types of fly reel
drags; the classic spring and pawl, popularized by Hardy Brothers of
England well over a century ago, or one of many variations of the more
modern disk drag. Most anglers, and manufacturers today overlook the
click pawl, unfairly in my opinion, in favor of disks for all fly
fishing. Actually, the click pawl, if well constructed, is very reliable
for smaller trout and is the lightest, simplest, and least expensive to
build. And as it works, it creates that sweet sound that many of us
find synonymous with fly fishing.

As we seek fish that pull
harder and faster and fight longer, our fly reels are progressively
subjected to greater amounts of what most often kills them; heat. A disc
drag slows the spool by friction, applying pressure between two or more
discs, usually one on the spool and one on the frame, or within a hub
mounted on the frame. A great number of variations of this seemingly
simple concept are available today, each one claiming superior
performance.

However, the big game fly reels that have been the
most successful in landing fish over 100 pounds, and, therefore, operate
smoothly and survive the greatest amounts of stress, have draw bar
drags. This simple system has two center mounted disk shaped brake
surfaces that meet when the spool is attached, and drag is increased as
the draw bar tightens the frame against the spool through the central
shaft.

Although most newer disk drag systems use synthetics such
as Rulon, Delrin or carbon fiber, as the brake material, natural cork
(ground and mixed with a polymer), is still considered by many
to offer the best balance of durability, low start up inertia, stopping
power, and adjustability. This cork composite, unlike the synthetics,
is compressible, providing for its smoothness. The Abel 5N Super has the
largest drag of this type of any 5 or 6 weight reel I’ve seen, and the
“open” design dissipates heat rapidly into the rear of the spool and
throughout the reel frame. “Closed” or completely sealed drag systems
offer the advantage of low maintenance, but generally can not cool as
effectively.

Cork must be lubricated occasionally to replenish
its natural moisture, usually with pure neatsfoot oil. Make sure to
follow the manufacturer’s directions, as petroleum products or solvents
may harm the cork, and back off the drag tension when not in use.
Perhaps the biggest disadvantage of the draw bar drag is that it does
not allow for quick change spools, as some disassembly is required.
Choose another design if this is a priority for you.

According
to the International Game Fish Association, Abel reels where used in
setting the greatest number of new world records for 2006. Though you
may not land a world record, you will at some point encounter that fish
of a lifetime. The Abel 5N Super Large Arbor Fly Fishing Reel, with its
impeccably machined strength and superb drag, is as likely as any to get
the job done.

Pros

Rugged, beautifully machined and finished trout-size reel with a very smooth and reliable drag system usually found only in larger, saltwater fly reels.

Cons

At $550, the Abel 5N Super is much more expensive than
some other very serviceable trout reels and is an ounce or more heavier
than others with lighter drag designs and frames. The draw bar does not
allow for the convenience of quick-change spools. Open design requires
occasional cleaning and lubrication.

Bottom Line

The Abel 5N Super, compared to other reels of its size, is most likely to withstand extreme conditions, and the one you’ll probably hand down to your grandchildren.

Reviewer. . .

Having been in the fly fishing industry for over 25 years
as a professional guide, fly fishing school director, writer, and
manufacturers sales representative, I’ve been fortunate to fish with a
wide array of equipment from almost all of the top makers.

A little history…

So, what’s this?? A beefy, brawny saltwater tough guy posing as a trout reel? Isn’t that a bit …well, overkill?
After
all, in fly fishing, unlike conventional spinning or bait casting, we
don’t actually use the reel to make the cast. In the old genteel days of
trout fishing, the reel simply stored line until we’re lucky enough to
hook something that took out more line than we had in our hand. I grew
up using a stamped, Japanese import, then a stamped Pflueger Medalist,
and finally graduated to a variety of die cast Hardy reels, the gold
standard of trout reels in the early 1980’s. I treasured all of them in
their time. Maybe it was the insistent buzz made by the clicker as a
trout peeled off line, or maybe I felt the reel was my fishing
companion, sharing in each new adventure.

Fast forward to 2007.
Our “genteel” art has become, on many fronts, a slugfest. No longer are
we satisfied plying our trade in bucolic settings fishing for small
trout. Today, many of us travel
the world seeking larger trout in New Zealand, Patagonia, and Chile. We
fish the salt water flats for species such as bonefish and permit that
swim much faster and pull much harder than their similarly sized
freshwater cousins. Consequently, we’re harder on our tackle and have
come to expect greater performance from our fly reels.

You’d
think it wouldn’t take rocket science to come up with a little metal
wheel with a brake that was dependable. But I’ve seen just about every
brand of reel fail at one time or another. Whether it’s grit or grime,
extreme heat or cold, component wear, or impact from a hard fall, if
there’s a weakness, we usually find out about it exactly at the wrong
time.

Enter Steve Abel. Although not a rocket scientist, he is
an experienced aerospace machinist, who started selling his fly fishing
reels in 1987. His motto then, and the company’s motto today is “to
design and build the best, most dependable gear in the world and give
world class customer service.” In the ensuing twenty years, Abel Quality
Products has succeeded in carving out a niche in the increasingly
competitive arena of high quality fly fishing reels and built a devoted
following of end users. The latest offering from Abel is the Super 5
Narrow Large Arbor, a trout sized reel that boasts a robustness usually
found only in its larger, saltwater brethren.

Features

The Abel Super 5N Fly Fishing Reel is the newest addition
to the Abel Super Series, which have a large arbor design for faster
line retrieve, reduced line coiling, and better drag continuity. The 5N
spool, frame, and foot are cut from a solid block of 6061-T6 cold
finished high molecular density aluminum. The spool and frame are
aggressively ported (ventilated) to reduce weight, while maintaining
great strength and rigidity. The draw bar, main shaft, pawls, and screws
are machined 303 stainless steel. The drag is comprised of a large surface
area, cork composite covered drag plate tightened against the inside of
the aluminum spool by the draw bar. All aluminum surfaces are protected
against corrosion by Abel’s proprietary hard anodizing process. The 5N
is convertible to left or right hand retrieve. At 5.7 ounces, it’s
relatively light considering its bombproof strength. The drag system is
silky smooth, with low start up inertia, and based on a simple design
that has proven itself over two decades. The spool capacity is suitable
for 5 or 6 weight lines, making it ideal for large trout and small
steelhead. Substituting smaller diameter gel spun backing in place of
Dacron, one could pump up the backing capacity to over 150 yards for
medium steelies, smaller bonefish, specks and reds. Overall, a nearly
flawless, extremely rugged and reliable fly fishing reel for taking
fresh and smaller saltwater species on light tackle.

• Large arbor, narrow spool design for quick line pick up

• Machined from 6061-T6 cold finished aluminum bar stock

• Impact resistant spool rim and frame

• Smooth, reliable cork-draw bar drag system

• Durable, hard anodized finish

• Custom colors, handles, and engraving available at additional charge

Materials, Fit, and Finish

Fly fishing reels machined from a solid bar of metal have
the greatest rigidity and strength per weight, but in the long run, are
more costly to produce than stamped, or die cast reels. Over thirty
years ago, American companies such as Seamaster and Fin Nor pioneered
the construction of machined fly reels, primarily for a small following
of hard core salmon and saltwater fly enthusiasts. The increased
popularity of fly fishing, coupled with political and economic expansion
of the Far East in recent years, has led to an influx of many
reasonable quality, less expensive machined imports primarily targeting
entry and mid level customers. Many U.S. makers of good reels have
folded under this pressure, and the majority that have remained, like
Abel and Tibor, have done so by directing there efforts at top of the
line products.

Although you may find some custom $2000-$10,000
titanium reel models on the Internet, aluminum is the choice for mere
mortals. Abel uses 6061-T6 cold finished bar stock in all of their
reels, which is the strongest, densest, most corrosion resistant
aluminum for this purpose. The spool, frame and foot of the 5N Super are
cut from this, and the mainshaft and drawbar from 303 stainless steel,
on Computer Numerical Control lathes and mills. In fact, every
machinable part in the reel is made in the Abel factory to insure utmost
quality control, right down to the stainless steel screws. The only
non-metal parts are the cork drag washer, a neoprene o-ring, and the
laminated, sealed wood handle.

The overall weight of the reel is
significantly reduced, while retaining structural integrity, by
precise, aggressive porting throughout the spool and frame. All parts
are hand de-burred, hand polished, cleaned and inspected and aluminum
parts are protected from wear and corrosion (and colored) by Abel’s
unique hard anodizing process, which penetrates and bonds to the metal.
Two sealed waterproof ball bearings on the spool and one on the drag
plate provide near frictionless rotation.

Abel currently employs
28 production workers and 7 support staff in their Camarillo,
California facility. They offer a lifetime warranty on manufacturing
defects for all their reels. Although you’re not likely to need that
warranty, it’s nice to know that Abel, due to their success, will
probably be around to back it up if you do.

What a drag

In a nutshell, there are two basic types of fly reel
drags; the classic spring and pawl, popularized by Hardy Brothers of
England well over a century ago, or one of many variations of the more
modern disk drag. Most anglers, and manufacturers today overlook the
click pawl, unfairly in my opinion, in favor of disks for all fly
fishing. Actually, the click pawl, if well constructed, is very reliable
for smaller trout and is the lightest, simplest, and least expensive to
build. And as it works, it creates that sweet sound that many of us
find synonymous with fly fishing.

As we seek fish that pull
harder and faster and fight longer, our fly reels are progressively
subjected to greater amounts of what most often kills them; heat. A disc
drag slows the spool by friction, applying pressure between two or more
discs, usually one on the spool and one on the frame, or within a hub
mounted on the frame. A great number of variations of this seemingly
simple concept are available today, each one claiming superior
performance.

However, the big game fly reels that have been the
most successful in landing fish over 100 pounds, and, therefore, operate
smoothly and survive the greatest amounts of stress, have draw bar
drags. This simple system has two center mounted disk shaped brake
surfaces that meet when the spool is attached, and drag is increased as
the draw bar tightens the frame against the spool through the central
shaft.

Although most newer disk drag systems use synthetics such
as Rulon, Delrin or carbon fiber, as the brake material, natural cork
(ground and mixed with a polymer), is still considered by many
to offer the best balance of durability, low start up inertia, stopping
power, and adjustability. This cork composite, unlike the synthetics,
is compressible, providing for its smoothness. The Abel 5N Super has the
largest drag of this type of any 5 or 6 weight reel I’ve seen, and the
“open” design dissipates heat rapidly into the rear of the spool and
throughout the reel frame. “Closed” or completely sealed drag systems
offer the advantage of low maintenance, but generally can not cool as
effectively.

Cork must be lubricated occasionally to replenish
its natural moisture, usually with pure neatsfoot oil. Make sure to
follow the manufacturer’s directions, as petroleum products or solvents
may harm the cork, and back off the drag tension when not in use.
Perhaps the biggest disadvantage of the draw bar drag is that it does
not allow for quick change spools, as some disassembly is required.
Choose another design if this is a priority for you.

According
to the International Game Fish Association, Abel reels where used in
setting the greatest number of new world records for 2006. Though you
may not land a world record, you will at some point encounter that fish
of a lifetime. The Abel 5N Super Large Arbor Fly Fishing Reel, with its
impeccably machined strength and superb drag, is as likely as any to get
the job done.

Pros

Rugged, beautifully machined and finished trout-size reel with a very smooth and reliable drag system usually found only in larger, saltwater fly reels.

Cons

At $550, the Abel 5N Super is much more expensive than
some other very serviceable trout reels and is an ounce or more heavier
than others with lighter drag designs and frames. The draw bar does not
allow for the convenience of quick-change spools. Open design requires
occasional cleaning and lubrication.

Bottom Line

The Abel 5N Super, compared to other reels of its size, is most likely to withstand extreme conditions, and the one you’ll probably hand down to your grandchildren.

Reviewer. . .

Having been in the fly fishing industry for over 25 years
as a professional guide, fly fishing school director, writer, and
manufacturers sales representative, I’ve been fortunate to fish with a
wide array of equipment from almost all of the top makers.

The bonefish has been called the “silver bullet of the flats” and rightfully so. This member of the Elopiformes order and close relative of the tarpon possesses lightning quickness and race car speed. In open water these fish have been clocked at nearly 23 miles per hour. This astounding physical ability has helped the bonefish survive 125 million years of evolution, solidifying its place among the earth’s most ancient species.

desc::The bonefish has been called the “silver bullet of the flats” and rightfully so. This member of the Elopiformes order and close relative of the tarpon possesses lightning quickness and race car speed. In open water these fish have been clocked at nearly 23 miles per hour. This astounding physical ability has helped the bonefish survive 125 million years of evolution, solidifying its place among the earth’s most ancient species.

“Bonefish fight so hard that they almost deserve to get away.”

- Pete Perinchief, former Director of Bermuda’s

Fishing Information Bureau, 1964

The bonefish has been called the “silver bullet of the flats” and rightfully so. This member of the Elopiformes order and close relative of the tarpon possesses lightning quickness and race car speed. In open water these fish have been clocked at nearly 23 miles per hour. This astounding physical ability has helped the bonefish survive 125 million years of evolution, solidifying its place among the earth’s most ancient species. The bonefish is also clever and cunning, its name, Albula vulpes, literally means “white fox.”

The bonefish was first discovered and named by famed Dutch ichthyologist, Pieter Bleeker, in 1859. Bleeker’s contribution to the study of fish was more than prolific during his 18 year stint as a medical officer in the Dutch East Indian Army from 1842 to 1860; his famous treatise Atlas Ichthyologique provides a laboriously detailed account of his work in Indonesia and includes notes on the bonefish.

Bleeker’s bonefish are incredibly nimble and skittish creatures. Native to saltwater flats environments, bonefish can be found in nearly every tropical body of water on the globe. The recorded range of the bonefish is 45°N - 31°s, 159°w - 35°w. Yet, despite their common occurrence and widely distributed range, bonefish remain a difficult set of silvery fins to catch, owing to their selective feeding, nearly perfect camouflage, 360-degree eyesight, and flat out speed in open water. The unique sporting challenge offered by bonefish has brought a host of eager fly anglers to the tropics in search of adventure and the chance to catch a silver bullet.

Bonefish are a curiously primitive looking species. Masters of illusion, bonefish sport a highly reflective set of scales that function as an array of tiny mirrors, reflecting quite accurately the fish’s ever-changing environment. The narrow and muscular bonefish is also built with a tapered nose, leading to an extremely powerful mouth. The species uses this mouth to root for its food in the coral and on the sandy bottom of the saltwater flats it calls home, crushing prey with its hard palate.

Emerging on the skinny water of the saltwater flats during periods of tidal flux, bonefish dine on a rich diet of clams, shrimp, and crabs, and they will rarely pass up the opportunity to snare even smaller critters such as saltwater worms, snails, and baitfish. Locally, bonefish will vary their feeding habits, sometimes turning into the tide to sniff out their prey and at other times following prey into the tidal direction. Fly anglers should be sure to understand their local quarry prior to stalking bonefish – a local fly shop or guide service can be invaluable in the pursuit of these mirrored torpedoes.

Tropical saltwater flats are often only a few inches deep and don’t offer feeding bonefish much protection or cover. When digging for their meals, bonefish are often forced to expose a good portion of their tail above the water. Subsequently, bonefish will often be found “tailing” either in pairs or in larger schools. To spot a tailing bonefish or group of bonefish, look for their deeply forked tails just above the waterline, flashing brilliantly in the sunlight. Saltwater fly anglers will tell you that there is nothing more exciting than crouching near a thick patch of turtle grass in the middle of an expansive tropical flat and spotting the glittering flash of a school of tailing bonefish!

Despite the classic tailing give-away, merely spotting a bonefish can present quite a frustrating challenge to a fly angler. Many saltwater flats have sandy bottoms, but others are composed of the mottled browns, greens, and gold of thick turtle grass, making it very difficult to glimpse a well-camouflaged fish. Saltwater fly anglers also look for “cruising” or “mudding” bonefish. When looking for a cruising fish or school, watch for quick flashes and shadows along the bottom of the flat. Mudding bonefish will produce clouds and wide plumes of gray sand as they hunt and dig for their prey. Looking for such a mud spot will often yield good results.

A good pair of polarized sunglasses with copper or yellow photochromatic lenses will ease the strain of this challenge. (Experience in spotting bonefish, or a guide perched atop the polling platform of a specialized flats boat will also help!)

Bonefish are particularly aware of the perils of the thin water in which they feed. Such heightened awareness renders these fish extremely skittish at the slightest sign of danger. Fly anglers must take extreme care not to frighten feeding bonefish. This means maintaining a low profile, keeping rod tips on the water, and being prepared to make long, directed, and accurate casts in a number of challenging conditions.

Saltwater flats fishing requires a confident cast, tight attention to fly presentations, and a good working knowledge of local water and tidal conditions. Bonefishing requires all of these along with a heavy dose of concentration. Fly anglers chasing bonefish will most often be sight casting for their quarry. When sight casting for bonefish it is extremely important to understand the delicate mix of water and wind conditions and distance to the fish. If the wind is high, an angler may need to use a shorter leader and a heavier 9 weight rod and line to turn over the fly and lay down a sixty foot cast. If conditions are calm and the saltwater flat is glassy, a 14 or 15 foot leader and a lighter 7 weight rod may be necessary to avoid spooking the fish during presentation of the fly. However, if you were to choose just one fly rod to tackle all conditions, it should be a 9' #8 fly rod. Our favorite bonefish fly rod is the Loop Cross S1 Flatsman 890-4...controlled distance, accuracy and strength.

Because bonefish are so wary, it is important to understand how the fish is moving and where to place a cast. Saltwater flats anglers will often lead a feeding bonefish by a generous 15 feet or more. The key to presenting a fly to a bonefish is to make the fly appear to be moving away from the fish. This may sound difficult, but can easily be achieved with a simple hook cast or reach cast – both well-practiced casts in the arsenal of trout and freshwater anglers.

Stripping line after such a cast is also important. Experiment with longer and shorter strips with different pacing; pause and give the fly a slight jerk and then strip in more line. Local guides will have a favored technique and will tell you just what to do when you’ve spotted a fish and placed that perfect cast.

Hooksetting should also not be overlooked. Be sure to set the hook firmly with a confident strip set as soon as you feel the subtle tug of a bonefish at the end of the line. Freshwater anglers making the transition to salt commonly make the mistake of lifting the rod tip vertically to set the hook. This technique may work on Montana’s great and storied Madison for big browns, but it won’t hook a bonefish. (Too many anglers have bought their guides rounds of drinks back at the lodge for lifting the tip instead of using a solid strip set. Don’t be a statistic!)

For efficient fly delivery and better hook sets, the proper fly line is very important when bonefishing. The Airflo Ridge Bonefish fly line is the best fly line on the market today for saltwater flats fishing. With a patented coating of polyurethane, which is impervious to bug repellant and sunscreen, this particular fly line will last many hard seasons. All other fly lines are constructed of PVC material and don't react well to the likes of bug spray and sun screen. The low-stretch core of the Airflo Bonefish line provides more efficient casts. And, when "strip-setting" on a bonefish, this low-stretch core makes for solid hook sets.

Bonefish will readily take a well-presented fly, and will make several long runs, usually taking a fly angler 150 yards deep into the backing. Generally a bonefish will make about as many long, straight runs as its weight in pounds. A 2-pound fish will make 2 long runs and a 4-pounder will take you and your reel for a spin about 4 times. This is not by any means a hard and fast rule, but something to keep in mind when it’s time to strip set the hook and play that fish!

A raft of creative fly patterns has arrived on the tails of the bonefish craze. Synthetics, foam, and flashy materials offer fly tiers a new world of possible creations to toss into the salt. Crazy Charlies and Bonefish Candy are effective patterns from Christmas Island to Los Roques. One of the hottest and most productive bonefish flies around is Bonefish Bitters, a modern epoxy-headed crustacean imitation developed by Craig Matthews in the 1980s. Classics like the Gotcha and the Bonefish Scampi as well as myriad crab patterns will also yield good results on the saltwater flats.

Bonefish have provided fly anglers of all stripes and backgrounds with a new and salty world of mystery, information, and excitement. Freshwater anglers have enjoyed the challenge of learning new rigging, casting techniques, and traveling to warmer more tropical destinations. Saltwater anglers have enjoyed advancing the sport of fooling bonefish with a fly and pushing the limits of saltwater flats fishing. Bonefish are special creatures, and according to fly fishing legend, Lefty Kreh, if left with only one choice, the bonefish would be his target. That’s quite a bold marketing pitch, and one we’re hard-pressed to disagree with.

“Bonefish fight so hard that they almost deserve to get away.”

- Pete Perinchief, former Director of Bermuda’s

Fishing Information Bureau, 1964

The bonefish has been called the “silver bullet of the flats” and rightfully so. This member of the Elopiformes order and close relative of the tarpon possesses lightning quickness and race car speed. In open water these fish have been clocked at nearly 23 miles per hour. This astounding physical ability has helped the bonefish survive 125 million years of evolution, solidifying its place among the earth’s most ancient species. The bonefish is also clever and cunning, its name, Albula vulpes, literally means “white fox.”

The bonefish was first discovered and named by famed Dutch ichthyologist, Pieter Bleeker, in 1859. Bleeker’s contribution to the study of fish was more than prolific during his 18 year stint as a medical officer in the Dutch East Indian Army from 1842 to 1860; his famous treatise Atlas Ichthyologique provides a laboriously detailed account of his work in Indonesia and includes notes on the bonefish.

Bleeker’s bonefish are incredibly nimble and skittish creatures. Native to saltwater flats environments, bonefish can be found in nearly every tropical body of water on the globe. The recorded range of the bonefish is 45°N - 31°s, 159°w - 35°w. Yet, despite their common occurrence and widely distributed range, bonefish remain a difficult set of silvery fins to catch, owing to their selective feeding, nearly perfect camouflage, 360-degree eyesight, and flat out speed in open water. The unique sporting challenge offered by bonefish has brought a host of eager fly anglers to the tropics in search of adventure and the chance to catch a silver bullet.

Bonefish are a curiously primitive looking species. Masters of illusion, bonefish sport a highly reflective set of scales that function as an array of tiny mirrors, reflecting quite accurately the fish’s ever-changing environment. The narrow and muscular bonefish is also built with a tapered nose, leading to an extremely powerful mouth. The species uses this mouth to root for its food in the coral and on the sandy bottom of the saltwater flats it calls home, crushing prey with its hard palate.

Emerging on the skinny water of the saltwater flats during periods of tidal flux, bonefish dine on a rich diet of clams, shrimp, and crabs, and they will rarely pass up the opportunity to snare even smaller critters such as saltwater worms, snails, and baitfish. Locally, bonefish will vary their feeding habits, sometimes turning into the tide to sniff out their prey and at other times following prey into the tidal direction. Fly anglers should be sure to understand their local quarry prior to stalking bonefish – a local fly shop or guide service can be invaluable in the pursuit of these mirrored torpedoes.

Tropical saltwater flats are often only a few inches deep and don’t offer feeding bonefish much protection or cover. When digging for their meals, bonefish are often forced to expose a good portion of their tail above the water. Subsequently, bonefish will often be found “tailing” either in pairs or in larger schools. To spot a tailing bonefish or group of bonefish, look for their deeply forked tails just above the waterline, flashing brilliantly in the sunlight. Saltwater fly anglers will tell you that there is nothing more exciting than crouching near a thick patch of turtle grass in the middle of an expansive tropical flat and spotting the glittering flash of a school of tailing bonefish!

Despite the classic tailing give-away, merely spotting a bonefish can present quite a frustrating challenge to a fly angler. Many saltwater flats have sandy bottoms, but others are composed of the mottled browns, greens, and gold of thick turtle grass, making it very difficult to glimpse a well-camouflaged fish. Saltwater fly anglers also look for “cruising” or “mudding” bonefish. When looking for a cruising fish or school, watch for quick flashes and shadows along the bottom of the flat. Mudding bonefish will produce clouds and wide plumes of gray sand as they hunt and dig for their prey. Looking for such a mud spot will often yield good results.

A good pair of polarized sunglasses with copper or yellow photochromatic lenses will ease the strain of this challenge. (Experience in spotting bonefish, or a guide perched atop the polling platform of a specialized flats boat will also help!)

Bonefish are particularly aware of the perils of the thin water in which they feed. Such heightened awareness renders these fish extremely skittish at the slightest sign of danger. Fly anglers must take extreme care not to frighten feeding bonefish. This means maintaining a low profile, keeping rod tips on the water, and being prepared to make long, directed, and accurate casts in a number of challenging conditions.

Saltwater flats fishing requires a confident cast, tight attention to fly presentations, and a good working knowledge of local water and tidal conditions. Bonefishing requires all of these along with a heavy dose of concentration. Fly anglers chasing bonefish will most often be sight casting for their quarry. When sight casting for bonefish it is extremely important to understand the delicate mix of water and wind conditions and distance to the fish. If the wind is high, an angler may need to use a shorter leader and a heavier 9 weight rod and line to turn over the fly and lay down a sixty foot cast. If conditions are calm and the saltwater flat is glassy, a 14 or 15 foot leader and a lighter 7 weight rod may be necessary to avoid spooking the fish during presentation of the fly. However, if you were to choose just one fly rod to tackle all conditions, it should be a 9' #8 fly rod. Our favorite bonefish fly rod is the Loop Cross S1 Flatsman 890-4...controlled distance, accuracy and strength.

Because bonefish are so wary, it is important to understand how the fish is moving and where to place a cast. Saltwater flats anglers will often lead a feeding bonefish by a generous 15 feet or more. The key to presenting a fly to a bonefish is to make the fly appear to be moving away from the fish. This may sound difficult, but can easily be achieved with a simple hook cast or reach cast – both well-practiced casts in the arsenal of trout and freshwater anglers.

Stripping line after such a cast is also important. Experiment with longer and shorter strips with different pacing; pause and give the fly a slight jerk and then strip in more line. Local guides will have a favored technique and will tell you just what to do when you’ve spotted a fish and placed that perfect cast.

Hooksetting should also not be overlooked. Be sure to set the hook firmly with a confident strip set as soon as you feel the subtle tug of a bonefish at the end of the line. Freshwater anglers making the transition to salt commonly make the mistake of lifting the rod tip vertically to set the hook. This technique may work on Montana’s great and storied Madison for big browns, but it won’t hook a bonefish. (Too many anglers have bought their guides rounds of drinks back at the lodge for lifting the tip instead of using a solid strip set. Don’t be a statistic!)

For efficient fly delivery and better hook sets, the proper fly line is very important when bonefishing. The Airflo Ridge Bonefish fly line is the best fly line on the market today for saltwater flats fishing. With a patented coating of polyurethane, which is impervious to bug repellant and sunscreen, this particular fly line will last many hard seasons. All other fly lines are constructed of PVC material and don't react well to the likes of bug spray and sun screen. The low-stretch core of the Airflo Bonefish line provides more efficient casts. And, when "strip-setting" on a bonefish, this low-stretch core makes for solid hook sets.

Bonefish will readily take a well-presented fly, and will make several long runs, usually taking a fly angler 150 yards deep into the backing. Generally a bonefish will make about as many long, straight runs as its weight in pounds. A 2-pound fish will make 2 long runs and a 4-pounder will take you and your reel for a spin about 4 times. This is not by any means a hard and fast rule, but something to keep in mind when it’s time to strip set the hook and play that fish!

A raft of creative fly patterns has arrived on the tails of the bonefish craze. Synthetics, foam, and flashy materials offer fly tiers a new world of possible creations to toss into the salt. Crazy Charlies and Bonefish Candy are effective patterns from Christmas Island to Los Roques. One of the hottest and most productive bonefish flies around is Bonefish Bitters, a modern epoxy-headed crustacean imitation developed by Craig Matthews in the 1980s. Classics like the Gotcha and the Bonefish Scampi as well as myriad crab patterns will also yield good results on the saltwater flats.

Bonefish have provided fly anglers of all stripes and backgrounds with a new and salty world of mystery, information, and excitement. Freshwater anglers have enjoyed the challenge of learning new rigging, casting techniques, and traveling to warmer more tropical destinations. Saltwater anglers have enjoyed advancing the sport of fooling bonefish with a fly and pushing the limits of saltwater flats fishing. Bonefish are special creatures, and according to fly fishing legend, Lefty Kreh, if left with only one choice, the bonefish would be his target. That’s quite a bold marketing pitch, and one we’re hard-pressed to disagree with.